Short-Term Rental Rules in Atlanta, GA (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term renting is allowed in Atlanta, GA. Hosts need a Short-Term Rental License (STRL) for their primary residence and optionally one additional dwelling unit. The rules became effective on March 1, 2022 [1].
Do you need a permit or license?
A short-term rental license is required for those renting out their property in exchange for compensation [2]. Owners or long-term tenants can apply for a license for their primary residence and one additional unit [1]. No business license is needed [4].
Taxes
Short-term rentals in Atlanta are subject to an 8% hotel-motel tax [4]. If the rental platform collects and remits this tax, the STR holder does not have to remit it directly [4].
Limits and restrictions
A licensee cannot transfer the right to operate to another person or entity [2]. A short-term rental period must not exceed 30 consecutive days, and the maximum occupancy is two adults per bedroom [2][3]. Only a primary residence can be licensed along with one additional dwelling unit [1].
Penalties
A license can be revoked if three violations occur in 12 months [4]. If revoked, a new application cannot be made for the same property for 12 months [4].
How to apply
Applications must be submitted annually to the Department of Planning and Community Development with a $150 non-refundable fee [3]. Applicants need to notify adjacent property owners by certified mail [4].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| License requirement | Required for each short-term rental property [2] |
| Taxes | 8% hotel-motel tax applies [4] |
| Maximum rental length | Cannot exceed 30 days [3] |
| Occupancy limits | Two adults per bedroom [2] |
| Application fee | $150 annually [3] |
| Appeal process | 30 days to appeal decisions [1] |
FAQ
Can I apply for a short-term rental license without owning the property?
Yes, long-term tenants can also apply if it's their primary residence [1].
Do I need a business license for short-term rentals in Atlanta?
No, a business license is not required, only an STRL [4].
Can I rent out more than two properties as short-term rentals in Atlanta?
No, you can only obtain an STRL for your primary residence and one additional unit [1].
Running a rental in Atlanta
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- Short-Term Rental | Atlanta, GA (official)
- Part 20 - SHORT TERM RENTALS | Code of Ordinances | Atlanta, GA | Municode Library (official)
- Ordinance 20-O-1656 - Regulation and Taxation of Short-Term Rentals (official)
- OFFICE OF BUILDINGS (official)
Last checked: October 4, 2026. This page summarizes rules the city, county or state has published. It is not legal advice, and rules change: confirm with the city before you list a property.